Testimonials

Widow & Armani

When my wife unexpectedly died several months ago, I was immediately in charge of her two rescue horses: a 34 year-old Percheron mare, Widow, and a retired Amish Draft gelding, Armani. Now, I was a pretty good barn slave back when we had a 40 acre ranch in northern California, but those days were past and now, in Casa Grande, Arizona, these two horses were her project and I was a minimal participant, at best.

Her death forced me into the role of main provider as I searched for their new “forever home”. While I was more than capable as a feeder and waterer, my knowledge of more extensive horse care was lacking so a new home was not only essential, but the quality of the new care- giver was equally important. Although a few folks offered their help in finding someone willing to take the horses in, no actual leads materialized. Weeks turned into months…

Then, a chance encounter and idle conversation at the local grocery store about football turned into a serious chat about horses thanks to my talking partner’s Ranch embroidered jacket. She was a neighbor who dropped by to see my horses, liked what she saw, and was also savvy at Social Media. Her subsequent online pleas for help created the thread that led to a text from Chrystal Reeck and the Safe Hands Sanctuary.

After a short exchange of texts, Chrystal and her husband, Jerry, made the 2 1/2 hour drive from their home south of Tucson to take a look at Widow and Armani. It didn’t take me long to see that Chrystal’s love affair with draft horses was genuine. I had been cautioned to be on the lookout for unscrupulous would-be adopters interested only in selling the horses to slaughter. Chrystal and Jerry dispelled my fears in short order.

The bottom line? I’m happy to report that Widow and Armani have now arrived at their new forever home. I’ve received photos and reports chronically their “settling in” process to include baths and brushing out that were both beyond my expertise. Oh, and the massages, too.

This may not be your run-of-the-mill testimonial, but Safe Hands is not your run-of-the-mill Sanctuary just as Chrystal and Jerry aren’t your cookie-cutter operators. Their history of rescuing has blossomed from saving dogs in Mexico into this full grown effort centered on hard-to-place draft horses. While I’m not a fan of social media myself, I can no longer say it serves no useful purpose. It brought strangers together and, most importantly, it created a path for two magnificent animals to live out their lives surrounded by those who are best suited to care for their well-being.

While some challenges remain, the largest one has been crossed off my list thanks to Chrystal, Jerry, and the Safe Hands Sanctuary. I will forever be in their debt…

G. Bruce

Sierra

Safe Hands Sanctuary is what rescue is all about. Compassion, Caring, Patience & Determination to make a difference and give the animals in their care the best life possible.

Jackie M.

Athena (Formerly Shay)

This rescue truly lives up to its name - its a peaceful, loving haven where rescued horses, dogs, cats and other animals are treated with dignity and respect.

What sets them apart is the personal dedication of the founders, Chrystal and Jerry, who have poured their hearts into creating a space where animals can heal and thrive after trauma or neglect. Their hands-on work and compassionate approach are evident in every update and story shared about the animals in their care.

If you're an animal lover, I highly recommend volunteering or supporting this incredible sanctuary - they are making a real difference for our 4-legged friends!

Barb